BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza Recipe

Introduction

BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza is a delicious twist on classic pizza using crusty French bread as the base. Topped with tangy BBQ sauce, tender chicken, melted cheddar, and fresh cilantro, it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread
• 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 cups shredded chicken
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
• Fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350˚F.
2. Step 2: Slice the French bread in half lengthwise. Spread softened butter on each half and sprinkle with garlic salt. Bake for 5-8 minutes until the bread is toasty and edges are golden brown.
3. Step 3: Spread BBQ sauce evenly over each bread half. Sprinkle a quarter of the cheddar cheese on each, then add shredded chicken, and top with the remaining cheese. Distribute the sliced red onion over the top.
4. Step 4: Bake for 12-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and toppings are hot. Remove from oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick, flavorful protein option.
• Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a different taste and melt.
• Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
• For a crispier crust, toast the bread a little longer before adding toppings.

Storage

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350˚F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to keep the crust crispy. Microwaving is faster but may soften the bread.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, ciabatta or a sturdy baguette can also work well as a base for this pizza. Just make sure the bread is firm enough to hold the toppings.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the pizza ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking cold pizza.

BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza Recipe

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4.8 from 511 reviews

This BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe perfect for a quick dinner or casual gathering. It features crusty French bread toasted with buttery garlic seasoning, topped with tangy BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, red onions, and fresh cilantro, then baked until golden and melty.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Pizza
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bread Base

• 1 loaf French bread
• 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt

Toppings

• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 cups shredded chicken
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F (177˚C) to get it ready for toasting and baking the pizza.
2. Prepare the Bread: Slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise. Spread softened butter evenly over each half and sprinkle garlic salt on top for flavor. Place the halves on a baking sheet and bake for 5 to 8 minutes, until the bread is toasty on top and the edges turn golden brown.
3. Add Sauce and Toppings: Remove the toasted bread from the oven and spread BBQ sauce evenly over each half. Then, distribute 1/4 of the shredded cheddar cheese on each side, followed by the shredded chicken. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the chicken and add the thinly sliced red onions on top.
4. Bake the Pizza: Return the loaded bread to the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted nicely and the toppings are heated through.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a burst of fresh flavor. Slice and serve your BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza immediately while hot and gooey.

Notes

• Use leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken shredded for convenience.
• Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on preferred taste and sauciness.
• For a spicier kick, add jalapeño slices or a drizzle of hot sauce before baking.
• Substitute cheddar cheese with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for extra meltiness.
• Keep an eye on the bread while toasting to prevent burning.

Keywords: BBQ chicken pizza, French bread pizza, easy pizza recipe, quick dinner, chicken pizza, casual meal